Embarking on a journey of personal growth and academic achievement, SPH Kemang Village alumna, Irene Chung, shares her inspiring story of how her time at the school shaped her passion for education which led her to pursue a master’s degree in education at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). Through an insightful interview, we explore the transformative experiences that have shaped Irene’s worldview and her vision to make a positive impact in the field of education.
Let’s dive into our insightful interview session with her!
Irene’s Academic Path
Irene introduces herself as a graduate of SPH Kemang Village in the year 2019. She furthered her education at the University of California San Diego (UCSD), where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a double minor in Education & Law. Irene is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Education at UPenn, with a 90% scholarship.
When asked how her experience at SPH Kemang Village influenced her decision to pursue a master’s degree in education, Irene highlighted the school’s profound impact on her understanding of education’s role in championing fairness and civil rights. Witnessing the potential of education as a potent instrument for shaping future leaders and creating positive transformation, Irene was inspired to pursue a master’s degree in education at the renowned Ivy League institution.
Irene was also inspired to seek further education at UPenn to gain access to top faculty and resources to develop her skills and experiences in the field.
“My experience at SPH Kemang Village showed me the power of education to advocate equity and social justice. It taught me that education is an incredibly effective way of equipping bright-minded students with the knowledge and skills required to implement social change as future leaders,” Irene shared.
Thriving in a Supportive Community
Grateful for the tight-knit community and dedicated teachers at SPH Kemang Village, Irene emphasizes how they fostered a strong sense of belonging and encouraged students to strive for excellence. Being part of the school’s soccer and basketball teams taught her the value of teamwork and collaboration, which she took with her in her college education journey. SPH Kemang Village became not only a place for academic growth but also a space for personal development and nurturing a genuine passion for learning.
Irene expressed, “Overall, SPH has provided a lifelong family for me and a space where I could develop myself and grow beyond the academic context. In this sense, all of these learning experiences, skills, and knowledge carried over to my university life. SPH taught me the value of perseverance and determination when accomplishing dreams while instilling a genuine passion for learning in me.”
When asked about the skills and knowledge gained at SPH Kemang Village that will be valuable at UPenn, Irene credits the school for embedding in her the qualities of perseverance, determination, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Irene also noted that these attributes, coupled with her university experiences, will surely act as a driving force, playing a crucial role in propelling her toward success in her master’s degree and future career in education.
“I thank SPH for instilling in me a genuine passion for learning and a fiery determination to succeed in pursuing my dreams,” said Irene.
Embracing Christian Roots
One significant aspect of Irene’s education at SPH Kemang Village was its Christian foundation, which shaped her values, beliefs, and worldview.
“It provided me with a solid foundation that continued to guide me during my faith journey in college and through times of immense personal struggle,” said Irene.
As Irene advances in her academic pursuits and future vocation, she envisions harmonizing her Christian principles by exemplifying the compassion of Jesus Christ in all her undertakings, extending God’s love to the communities she dedicates herself to serving.
Irene shared her own words: “As I pursue my studies and future career in education, I plan to integrate these aspects by reflecting the love of Jesus Christ in all of my endeavors, spreading God’s love to the communities I serve.”
Irene’s Vision for the Future
Gazing into the future, Irene has a deep-seated ambition to bring about a constructive revolution in education.
Irene expressed her vision, stating, “After completing my master’s degree at UPenn, I aim to work either as an educational policy lawyer in the US or as an educator in Indonesia. With the combined experiences from SPH Kemang Village, UC San Diego, and UPenn, I envision using my knowledge, skills, and Christ-like values to positively impact this chosen path of mine. My overall goal is to contribute to the betterment of education, championing equity and social justice through my work.”
Irene’s journey from SPH Kemang Village to UPenn showcases the profound power of education and the influence of a nurturing Christian environment. Her passion for education as a catalyst for positive change, combined with her desire to make a difference in the lives of others, exemplifies the values instilled at SPH.
To all current and future students of the school, Irene’s inspiring story also stands as a compelling call to embrace their transformative journeys. As they embark on their educational paths, they are encouraged to draw strength from the supportive community and caring educators at SPH, who are dedicated to fostering personal growth and instilling values that extend far beyond the classroom.
For those who aspire to champion equity, foster social justice, and uplift their communities, SPH continues to stand as an invaluable platform for realizing these ambitions. Through our commitment to excellence in education and nurturing students’ hearts and minds, we strive to empower our graduates to become compassionate, principled individuals who actively contribute to the betterment of society.
Would you like to be a part of a dynamic learning environment that fosters a strong sense of community and encourages students to be change-makers in society? Uncover the impactful educational journey experienced by our alumni like Irene at SPH Kemang Village. For more information on our programs and values, contact us today.
